What are some of the negative characteristics of a rat terrier?

Answer 1

1. The dynamic terrier temperament.Most terrier breeds are remarkably similar. The same words are used over and over -- quick to bark, quick to chase, lively, bossy, feisty, scrappy, clever, independent, stubborn, persistent, impulsive, intense. However, Rat Terriers are very individualistic in that some individuals fit that description to a tee, while other individuals are MUCH more easygoing and calm and make wonderful pets.
2. Providing regular exercise and mental stimulation.Rat Terriers must have regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise you will end up with a frustrated, bored Rat Terrier, and that's when you'll see a lot of barking, digging, and destructive chewing.
3. Animal aggression.Though Rat Terriers tend to be more sociable with other dogs and cats than many other terriers, some individuals are still quite dominant toward other dogs of the same sex, and some are cat chasers.
4. Fence security.Rat Terriers are smart, athletic, and exploratory, which makes them ideal candidates for finding their way over or under your fences in search of adventure. You may need higher fences than you might imagine for their moderate size.
5. Barking.Rat Terriers are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. You have to be equally quick to stop them.
6. Mind of their own.Though much more amenable to training than other terriers, Rat Terriers must still be taught at an early age that they are not the rulers of the world. The toughness that makes them suited to killing vermin can frustrate you when you try to teach them anything. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.
7. Finding a healthy one.Allergies and skin disorders are the most common health problems in Rat Terriers, but epilepsy and Heart disease are becoming concerns, as well.